Stay fit not skinny

Why is stretching so important ?

It is very important for a fitness seeker to do stretching exercise before and after workout. Stretching exercise does not need much of time. It makes muscles flexible enough and makes you ready for the workout.

Stretching exercise increases movement efficiency. It allows your body to be more flexible while working out. It also lowers the chances of muscle pull. It improves the posture and balance of body structure. Stretching your body before workout enhances blood circulation and nutrition to the joints. It is important part of fitness. It can improve range of motion.

While performing these exercises one need to hold a particular position for 10-15 seconds. These stretching exercises are not instance however need to feel little discomfort to be impactful.

Here are few stretches which you can practice before exercise.

Leg swings stretch

Hold the heavy object to support like table or a bar. Stand on one leg and pull the leg backward and forward. Repeat it with other leg. Do it 15 – 20 times each leg.

Standing quad stretch

For this stretch, you need to stand with both the legs together. Bend your right leg behind and hold it with your right hand and pull it behind, try pulling it or stretching you heel to your butt. Hold it for 15-20 seconds and repeat it with your left leg.

Butterfly Stretch

Sit on the floor on yoga mat. Put your sole of both the feet touching each other and your knees spreader to the sides. Move your knees slightly up and down. Ensure knees remain close to the ground.

Hamstrings stretch

Lie on the back on the yoga mat and keep legs extended. Pull your left knee towards your chest; keep the right leg straight on the floor. Now slowly extend you left leg straight up simultaneously hold the back of your leg with the hands. Inhale deeply and remain in this position for 15-20 seconds.

These stretches will help you strengthen your core muscles and also activates your other parts of body. It will help you perform your exercises better.

Standing side stretch

Stand with your feet together. Raise your hands and clasp hands together. Bend your upper body to the right and hold for 15-20 seconds. Slowly return to the center and repeat the same to your left.